The Power Of Knowing You.

Who are you?

If the first answer that popped into your head was your name, then you misunderstood the question. 

I’ll ask again: who are you?

Ever really thought about that? Ever really taken the time to examine who you are as a person? If knowledge is power, then truly knowing yourself is a powerful tool when it comes to decision making. When asked about your personality, what would you say? What would your friends say? What are your weaknesses?

A good way to put who we are into perspective is to try and remember defining moments in our pasts. I’ve often been described as caring, thoughtful, considerate, peace loving, and honest/genuine. The earliest I can remember these traits manifesting was at about 6 years old. I was playing on the playground and I remember a kid that was deliberately being rude to me. He was saying mean things and throwing rocks at me and I picked up a rock and threw it back at him! The rock hit him square in the forehead. The kid fell down crying and I started tearing up and I ran home. I felt so bad that I confessed to my dad what had happened.  My father told me that it was right for me to stand up for myself but my reply was “But daddy! I hurt him!” Can you remember any life experiences that have helped define who you are?

Another glimpse at ourselves is to examine our friendships and social groups. What “roles” recur as a result of your personality? Are you the shy or quiet type? Do you like to be the center of attention? The voice of reason, or maybe a bit of a joker? Possibly a variety of these? What dynamics have you brought to your friendships?

Spending quality time with yourself can also be an effective way of getting to know you.  When a person takes time out for themselves, the things they do in that time frame are often indicative of their wants and needs. Maybe in your quality time you like to go shopping? Read a book? Go to the gym? Take a nap regardless of having plenty of sleep? Or you may need a mental/emotional outlet such as a blog? Someone like me, who is clearly a kid at heart, enjoys watching cartoons from time to time! :-)

Knowing yourself is pivotal when it comes to decision making—especially in the context of everyday life. For instance if you’re someone with a strong personality do you think it’d be wise to have a roommate with a short temper? If you tend to be influence-able would it be wise to be around people who are doing morally wrong or questionable things? Would you be okay with dating a Muslim if your beliefs were Christian, or would it eventually lead to too many disagreements? The overall quality of your life can improve by making decisions that are suited for who you are.

[On a side note, it’s important to remember that while some things about us may stay the same, other things may change or evolve as time passes. You might be that person who flies by the seat of their pants and then, as time passes, puts more emphasis on close friends and family than living in the moment.  Changes are always happening; just take care that the inner changes are not ones that have a negative impact on your life. Set the bar at being the best version of yourself!]

Thanks for taking time to read this! I challenge you to get in touch with yourself (if you’re not already) and stay in touch with yourself so you see the changes as they’re happening.

Here’s more food for thought! Check out this article, entitled “Your 24 Possible Personal Strengths”